First time host questions

[Kris99]

I am looking at renting one room within my home.  What advice would you give a first time host?  There will not be a separate entrance and wondered what kind of security procautions you would suggest?  I am not sure that I would want to give out a key.  I have seen there are many hosts that will be there to greet guests and when they checkout.

Any advice would be helpful!!  Thanks!

[Marzena4]

Are you planning to not leave your home all the time during your guests' stays, @Kris99? I cannot imagine that somehow... I wouldn't stay in a place like that myself. Hosting is also about accepting strangers and letting them into your place.

[Kris99]

Thanks!  I am looking forward to meeting travelers through offering space in my home.  So do you feel that if I do plan to be around most of the time that is too intrusive? 

[Matthew285]

@Kris99, you are not alone in your concern about giving out a key.

But please be aware it would be very unusual for a guest to not be given a key of some sort.

Some hosts use one of the several "smart" locks available that let hosts give out a "virtual" key or a key code that can be easily changed. (Some lock systems even automatically work with AirBnB to set themselves up.)

That way you don't have to worry about a guest making a copy of your key for later misuse.

Search this discussion room for the words "Smart Lock" to find a number of discussions about AirBnB and lock technology.

If you search on Google, search for "AirBnB smart lock".

[Misha10]

Hi @Kris99! I recommend using a keyless entry system if possible. In two years of hosting, I have only had two incidents of theft. While most guests are extremely trustworthy, you do need to protect yourself against the few bad ones. I recommend an inexpensive home security camera. 

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